Roberto Mancini loses cool when asked about Man City future

Roberto Mancini swore in front of reporters and TV cameras as he was asked to comment on his Manchester City future.

The Blues' hopes of retaining their Premier League crown are fading and the Italian's position has come under considerable scrutiny, with Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini becoming the latest name to be linked with the Etihad top job.

Mancini dismissed suggestions he could be sacked when he met media prior to last week's FA Cup win over Leeds and had to revisit the subject after the game.

When former Real Madrid boss Pellegrini was then mentioned in the opening question at his latest press conference, Mancini indicated he was clearly wearying of the discussion.

After a shrug, but then a smile, Mancini said: "f****** hell!"

After a brief pause and a laugh, he gave a more thorough response.

The Italian said: "I cannot continue to answer about this every week.

"We have another two months. In two months you will know if this can happen but I can't continue with this.

"This is normal for you, it's your job, don't worry, but I can't continue to answer each week about one (manager) or another or another.

"But also because I don't understand this - why would Manchester City change their manager? For what reasons?"

City trail Premier League leaders Manchester United by 12 points, a gap that could have increased before they face third-placed Chelsea on Sunday.

But after leading City to FA Cup success in 2011 and following up with last year's dramatic title victory - the club's first league win in 44 years - Mancini retains the support of the fans.

His name was chanted a number of times during the win over Leeds last Sunday, which took City through to the last eight of the cup.

Mancini said: "After the FA Cup (game) I said that in the last 18 months since Manchester United won the Premier League, there were seven trophies (to play for) and Manchester City won three of those seven trophies.

"For this reason I don't understand (the speculation).

"I'm not the CEO or chairman, if you want to ask these questions ask them.

"I have four more years on my contract, I think I'm doing well, I am happy here."

Mancini said he was still unsure whether captain Vincent Kompany, who has missed the last four games with a calf injury, would be fit to return against Chelsea.

Midfielder Gareth Barry, who has been troubled by an ankle problem, will also be assessed